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Plc Controls Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

PLC Controls Mechanic

Commerce, CA · On-site

$49.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Support the day to day operations of the Engineering and Maintenance Departments. * Take ... Develop and maintain a world class database of all plant PLC programs * Monitor and ensure timely ...

PLC Controls Mechanic

Commerce, CA · On-site

$84K - $107K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Support the day to day operations of the Engineering and Maintenance Departments. * Take ... Develop and maintain a world class database of all plant PLC programs * Monitor and ensure timely ...

PLC Controls Mechanic

Commerce, CA · On-site

$84K - $107K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Support the day to day operations of the Engineering and Maintenance Departments. * Take ... Develop and maintain a world class database of all plant PLC programs * Monitor and ensure timely ...

Controls Engineer

Baldwin Park, CA · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Job Summary Controls Engineers are key to ensuring the success and efficiency of our highspeed ... This individual will work in a variety of areas of the manufacturing facility developing PLC and ...

Controls Engineer, PLC Programming

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$125K - $145K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

As a Controls Engineer PLC Programming, you will be participating in the research, development and deployment of AI enabled robot cells for material handling and logistics applications. You will ...

Controls Engineer, PLC Programming

San Francisco, CA

$125K - $145K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

As a Controls Engineer PLC Programming, you will be participating in the research, development and deployment of AI enabled robot cells for material handling and logistics applications. You will ...

Controls Engineer

Fairfield, CA

$95K - $105K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Hands on PLC controls system knowledge, PLC programming, instrument programming and integration. * Configuring and designing HMI/OIT systems (e.g. Allen Bradley, Siemens, Wonderware, etc.). Program ...

Controls Engineer

Woodland, CA · On-site

$43.27 - $45.67/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... devices, and PLC/SCADA operation Make wiring modifications to existing panels or work with ... Skills Details controls engineering,scada Additional Skills & Qualifications Required ...

Controls Engineer

Arbuckle, CA · On-site

$43.27 - $45.67/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... devices, and PLC/SCADA operation Make wiring modifications to existing panels or work with ... Skills Details controls engineering,scada Additional Skills & Qualifications Required ...

Controls Engineer

Agoura Hills, CA · On-site

$89K - $115K/yr

... Controls Engineer supporting a variety of industrial automation projects ... In this role, you'll design, program, test, and commission PLC, SCADA, and HMI control systems ...

Controls Engineer

Fairfield, CA · On-site

$95K - $105K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Hands on PLC controls system knowledge, PLC programming, instrument programming and integration. * Configuring and designing HMI/OIT systems (e.g. Allen Bradley, Siemens, Wonderware, etc.). Program ...

Controls Engineer

Agoura Hills, CA · On-site

$89K - $115K/yr

... Controls Engineer supporting a variety of industrial automation projects ... In this role, you'll design, program, test, and commission PLC, SCADA, and HMI control systems ...

Controls Engineer

San Jose, CA · Hybrid

$115K - $130K/yr

Controls Engineer About Us Our mission is to always put our clients first by offering the most ... Familiarity with PLC controls and a variety of conventional BMS platforms. * High proficiency with ...

Controls Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$115K - $130K/yr

Controls Engineer About Us Our mission is to always put our clients first by offering the most ... Familiarity with PLC controls and a variety of conventional BMS platforms. * High proficiency with ...

Controls Engineer

Calabasas, CA · On-site

$88K - $114K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This position is responsible for controls engineering project requirements: * Designs, develops ... Develops control logic software and user interface applications for PLC, SCADA, and HMI. Scripted ...

Controls Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$115K - $130K/yr

Controls Engineer About Us Our mission is to always put our clients first by offering the most ... Familiarity with PLC controls and a variety of conventional BMS platforms. * High proficiency with ...

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Showing results 1-20

Plc Controls Engineer information

See California salary details

$54.8K

$90.8K

$122.4K

How much do plc controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for plc controls engineer in California is $90,822.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,000.00 and $98,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a PLC controls engineer?

PLC Controls Engineers are professionals who design, program, and maintain programmable logic controllers (PLCs) used to automate industrial processes. They develop control systems that allow machinery and production lines to operate efficiently and safely. Their responsibilities also include troubleshooting issues, upgrading systems, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. PLC Controls Engineers often work closely with other engineers and technicians to optimize manufacturing operations.

What does a PLC controls engineer do?

As a PLC controls engineer, your primary responsibilities include the setup, programming, testing, and implementation of computer control systems used for production automation and industrial equipment design. Your duties are to implement programs on programmable logic controllers and test whether industrial computers process information and function correctly. You debug issues and troubleshoot problems that have non-standard solutions. In this role, you also assess the functionality of electrical, mechanical, and pneumatic systems and may work in numerous fields, including aviation, robotics, energy production, and manufacturing.

How much does a Plc Controls Engineer earn?

A PLC Controls Engineer's average salary typically ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior or specialized engineers with certifications and extensive skills in PLC programming and automation may earn higher salaries. Compensation can also include benefits such as overtime, bonuses, and professional development opportunities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PLC controls engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a PLC Controls Engineer, you need strong knowledge of electrical engineering, automation systems, and proficiency in programming PLCs, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC platforms (such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or Schneider), HMI/SCADA systems, and industrial networking is essential, and certifications like Siemens S7 or Rockwell Automation can be advantageous. Analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and effective communication set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These skills are critical for designing, troubleshooting, and optimizing automated processes to ensure efficiency and reliability in industrial environments.

What is the difference between Plc Controls Engineer vs Automation Technician?

AspectPlc Controls EngineerAutomation Technician
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical/Automation Engineering, PLC certificationsTechnical diploma or associate degree, PLC training
Work EnvironmentDesign, programming, and troubleshooting PLC systems in industrial settingsInstallation, maintenance, and repair of automation equipment
Industry UsageManufacturing, process control, automation firmsFactory floors, maintenance departments

The Plc Controls Engineer focuses on designing and programming PLC systems, requiring engineering credentials. In contrast, the Automation Technician handles installation and troubleshooting, often with technical diplomas. Both roles are vital in industrial automation but differ in scope and responsibilities.

Are Plc Controls Engineers in demand?

Plc Controls Engineers are in high demand due to the ongoing need for automation in manufacturing, processing, and industrial facilities. They typically require knowledge of PLC programming, electrical systems, and control hardware, and job opportunities are expected to grow as industries continue to automate processes.

What are some typical challenges a PLC controls engineer might face when working on a new automation project?

PLC Controls Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating new automation systems with existing machinery, troubleshooting unexpected equipment behavior, and ensuring minimal downtime during installation or upgrades. Communication with cross-functional teams—including electricians, mechanical engineers, and production managers—is essential to align project goals and resolve issues efficiently. Additionally, adapting to rapidly changing project requirements and keeping up with the latest PLC programming standards are common aspects of the role.

What are popular job titles related to Plc Controls Engineer jobs in California?

For Plc Controls Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Plc Controls Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Plc Controls Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Plc Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Plc Controls Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Plc Controls Engineer jobs in CA?

For Plc Controls Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Plc Controls Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,822 per year, or $43.7 per hour.

$71K - $97K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Position Summary
We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Controls Programmer to design, develop, and commission PLC-based control systems. This role is responsible for bringing controls projects from concept to completion, ensuring systems are fully functional, optimized, and aligned with customer specifications.

Key Responsibilities
  • Collaborate with customers to understand project requirements and overall system objectives
  • Design, develop, and program PLC systems based on project specifications
  • Develop and program HMI and SCADA systems
  • Provide onsite commissioning, startup, and troubleshooting support
  • Work closely with electricians and project teams to ensure proper system functionality
  • Diagnose, modify, and improve existing PLC programs to meet evolving customer needs
  • Train end users on system functionality and operation
  • Create and maintain detailed system documentation and user manuals

Qualifications & Experience
  • 3–5 years of experience in controls programming, preferably within material handling or similar industries
  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field preferred
  • Strong knowledge of electrical and software fundamentals related to conveyor and material handling systems
  • Must be knowledgeable in the use of all Rockwell Software Manufacturing Suite of Software and utilities. This must include but is not limited to RSLogix 500, RSLogix 5000/Studio, and FactoryTalk View ME & SE.
  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel) and Windows operating systems
  • Experience with PC-based programming languages, Windows Server environments, and virtual systems is a plus

Certified Employment Group logo

About Certified Employment Group

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Certified Employment Group started in San Francisco in 1963. Our cornerstone mission was, and remains, to provide ethical, caring service to each of our clients and employees. These values mean using technology to create efficiencies for our clients, expand our service offerings and enhance the level of service we can provide. As Northern California businesses have prospered, Certified has responded by opening branches to serve high-growth areas. We have expanded our services to include on-site management for major accounts, developing a web based interface and opening specialized divisions in Legal, Renewable Energy and Accounting. Certified remains independently owned, responsive, flexible and wholly committed to our original values. We believe this is the reason for our success. Industry rankings continually place Certified in the top ten percent based on sales!

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Emeryville, CA, US

Year founded

1963